The Last Beginning

"The Last Beginning" is the second and last installment of Lauren James' "The Next Together"-duology. After follwing multiple reincarnations of Kate and Matt through different periods in time, this book centers on their daughter Clove. When she finds out that she is, in fact, adopted and learns about her true parentage, Clove is shocked. Nonetheless, she also wants to know why they left her and disappeared without a trace. Her search uncovers a truth she didn't believe to be possible and her subsequent actions threaten to change the world as she knows it... I enjoyed reading "The Last Beginning" even though it can't keep up with its predecessor. I am glad that the things that were left unclear in "The Next Together" get explained, but I am still a little bit confused as to how all the time travelling works. I am sad to say that I didn't particularly like Clove. She is an okay protagonist, but not one I rooted for or empathized with. On top of that I found her relationship with Ella somewhat rushed and at times even cringe-worthy. All in all, "The Last Beginning" did by no means knock my socks off, but is still an enjoyable read with a pretty satisfying conclusion.